The safety of long-acting beta-agonists: more evidence is needed

Respirology : Official Journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology
Shamsah KazaniMalcolm R Sears

Abstract

There is controversy regarding the possibility that long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) may paradoxically contribute adversely to asthma mortality. While studies and meta-analyses indicate increased risk, epidemiological data indicate a slow fall in asthma mortality since the introduction of LABA. Advocates for LABA propose that mandatory simultaneous use of inhaled corticosteroids satisfactorily reduce any potential risk. In the face of lingering doubts, others propose that LABA should be withdrawn from use. In this pro-con article, Kazani et al. provide the rationale for a modified randomized controlled trial that would define the level of risk more clearly, and provide the basis for a clear judgment to be made. Sears argues that current knowledge about the risks associated with LABA, especially when prescribed as monotherapy, provides sufficient evidence for clinicians and licensing authorities alike, and that the logistics and likely outcomes for a large prospective study are unjustified.

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Citations

May 6, 2011·The New England Journal of Medicine·Sven-Erik DahlénJeffrey M Drazen
Feb 23, 2011·Respirology : Official Journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology·Helen K ReddelDarryl A Knight
Nov 1, 2011·Drugs·Satya Mysore, Richard E Ruffin
Jan 15, 2013·Journal of Pediatric Health Care : Official Publication of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates & Practitioners·Kristen MassinghamArlene Smaldone
May 28, 2011·European Journal of Clinical Investigation·Stephen T Holgate
May 1, 2012·The Journal of Asthma : Official Journal of the Association for the Care of Asthma·Tammy S JacobsAndrew J MacGinnitie
Feb 26, 2015·Chronic Respiratory Disease·Mitesh Patel, Dominick Shaw
Dec 17, 2010·World Journal of Cardiology·Stanislav SuskovicMitja Lainscak
May 8, 2020·International Journal of Palliative Nursing·Jung Won Kim, Eun Young Park

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